New Mexico struggles to attract and keep skilled workers, and one major reason is unnecessary red tape. Too many people who want to work here are blocked by long, confusing licensing rules that make it harder to move, start a job, or open a small business. I believe these barriers hurt families, limit opportunity, and slow economic growth.
Licensing should protect public health and safety, not trap people in paperwork. Right now, delays and inconsistent rules are making it harder to fill critical jobs across the state. In health care, qualified professionals often wait months just to get permission to work. Dentists, nurses, and doctors are needed urgently, especially in rural communities, yet the licensing process can drag on so long that many simply choose to practice somewhere else. A lack of meaningful reciprocity makes the problem worse by forcing professionals to repeat steps they’ve already completed in another state.
The same issue affects the trades and service industries. Barbers, salon workers, contractors, and technicians face delays and requirements that slow down hiring and make it harder to start or expand small businesses. These are jobs that support families and serve local communities, and there is no good reason for people to wait months before they can earn a paycheck.
My plan focuses on getting people to work faster without compromising safety. I support full license reciprocity for professionals who are already licensed in good standing in another state, unless there is a clear and proven public safety concern. This change alone would immediately expand the workforce by allowing qualified doctors, nurses, tradespeople, and technicians to begin work without unnecessary delay.
I also support setting firm timelines for licensing boards. Applications should be processed within a clear window, such as 30 days, so workers aren’t left in limbo. Boards should be held accountable when delays happen.
Some licensing delays aren’t caused by applicants at all, but by boards that don’t meet regularly, can’t reach a quorum, or no longer serve a clear purpose. I support reviewing boards that are inactive or consistently unable to function and either fixing them, consolidating them, or moving their duties to a centralized licensing authority. Oversight should work for the public, not stall people’s livelihoods.
Finally, I will work to remove licensing requirements that don’t protect health or safety, especially for entry-level jobs. Cutting unnecessary rules makes it easier to start a business, switch careers, and fill open positions.
Opening the door to talent is about fairness and opportunity. By cutting red tape and focusing on what truly matters, New Mexico can become a place where skilled workers are welcomed and ready to work.
